News and views December 2019

Brighten your winter with Scilly Flowers

Scented narcissi flourish outdoors in small sheltered fields dotted across the Isles of Scilly. And at Churchtown Farm on St Martin’s there’s a dedicated team picking the flowers come rain, shine or gale, from October through to Easter, ready to send throughout the UK.

Christmas is by far the busiest time of year at the farm, as fresh, colourful flowers sourced locally are hard to come by. This, along with the fact that a bouquet of scented narcissi makes the perfect Christmas present, means that the flurry of Christmas orders starts in November. So, if you want give the gift of a beautifully scented bouquet to a loved one this year, make sure to get your orders in soon and reserve your preferred delivery date.

For more information call 01720 422169 or visit www.scillyflowers.co.uk

Tales through time by Gail Rayner

Having trained as a nurse in Exeter, author Gail Rayner now lives in and works in Plymouth, where she also crafted her two Cornwall-based novels, Castles and The Lady. Each set in very different eras, The Lady is based in a turbulent Cornwall at a time of hunger and crime and follows the story of Lady Tremaine. Now a widow after her husband met an untimely death, she finds herself left with more questions than answers, in a tale of love, murder, sadness and bravery.

Castles, meanwhile, follows the story of Ann, who has been assigned to cover the filming of a popular television series. Her friend Phoebe is handy with a camera, so Ann invites her along with not-entirely honest pretences, along with Sue, who is just fun to have around. With three friends getting a little more than they bargained for, Castles tells a story of friendship, sea and, well, have a read and discover for yourself!

For more information visit www.austinmacauley.com/author/rayner-gail

Open-plan living: design a layout that works for you

Designing an open-plan house is a popular, modern approach. It means that you can cook, dine and watch TV, all in the same room. This can be great for family and guest interaction. But how do you separate these areas visually, whilst creating a unified design that enables all areas to work together?

We seek some advice on how to make the most of your space from Andrea Lane of Lane Architects: “Plan where to put the different areas you will use for dining, cooking, and relaxing. It is logical to have a dining area next to the kitchen, with the sitting area after that.” Andrea uses her own self-build house in Falmouth that she project managed  (pictured) as an example. “The three areas are laid out in a triangle, so they are all linked. In order to achieve this, the kitchen is open at both sides. When the dining table is in use, the kitchen also doubles as a space that gives access around the table. This makes the plan more efficient when space is limited.”

For more information call 07812 952275 or visit www.lanearchitects.co.uk

A wild winter wedding

A winter wedding can be a truly memorable event, full of rich scents and stunning backdrops. We catch up with Wild Tipi owner, Sam Moore, and discuss the perfect winter celebration. “There is something truly magical about a winter wedding and we absolutely love being a part of them,” says Sam. “The beauty of our tipis is that they are so versatile. They can be put up virtually anywhere, and we have worked in some breathtaking winter wonderland settings. The only limit is your imagination.”

Of course, a winter celebration doesn’t have to be a wedding – Wild Tipi has hosted a range of other glorious festive parties, from corporate events to carol services, so make sure to get in touch with the friendly team for a winter wonder of your own.

For more information email sam@wildtipi.co.uk or visit www.wildtipi.co.uk

Inject new life  into your kitchen

Modern lifestyles are fast and getting faster. If you’ve been putting off that long-awaited kitchen makeover because you’re worried about the cost, you may be interested to know that it could be a whole lot cheaper and easier than you think. Indeed, you’d be amazed at how much difference simply replacing your doors can make to the heart of your home!

Matt Jones, who owns and runs Dream Doors in Truro, explains: “The thing that sets us apart is that our UK manufactured doors are made to measure.” This means you can get your new doors to fit your existing units, injecting a new lease of life into your tired kitchen.

Interested? If so, why not pay a visit to the showroom and discover the vast range of styles to choose from?

For more information call 01872 240650 or visit www.dreamdoors.co.uk

Experience animal welfare in action

Each season at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary the team rehabilitates over 70 seal pups rescued from around the Cornish coastline. Hear about dramatic rescues and meet the seal and sea lion characters whose individual stories are brought to life during your visit. Explore behind the scenes at the heart of marine rescue in Cornwall’s only working Seal Hospital and see how the team carry out life-saving work with the animals. The sanctuary is also home to Asian short-clawed otters, Humboldt penguins and paddock animals.

Tucked against the picturesque backdrop of the Helford river, the sanctuary is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The 42-acre centre also boasts a woodland quiz trail, Discovery Cove Playground, a café with undercover seating and a giftshop.

For more information call 01326 221361 or visit Sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.org

A breathtaking exhibition

“This is a fragile place, a delicate and ancient piece of land and water – a beautiful place to linger, to watch and to witness.” – Kurt Jackson

In this breathtaking body of work, leading contemporary artist Kurt Jackson immerses himself – sometimes literally – in a tributary of the Helford river. This unique landscape famously inspired Daphne du Maurier’s 1941 novel Frenchman’s Creek.

For this exhibition, the Jackson Foundation Gallery is working in partnership with the conservation charities Plantlife, the National Trust and the Helford Marine Conservation Group, each of which work to protect and promote the delicate ecosystem of this unique corner of Cornwall.

‘Kurt Jackson: Frenchman’s Creek’ runs December 20th 2019 to January 4th 2020 at the Jackson Foundation Gallery, St Just. Open Monday to Saturday, 10am until 5pm, except for 23rd and 24th December, and bank holidays.

For more information call 01736 787638 or visit www.jacksonfoundationgallery.com

Interior inspiration from Tileworld

What better way to welcome the New Year than by updating your interior? Whether you’re looking for mosaics, glass, wall or floor tiles, at Tileworld, the team are always on hand to help you choose. Indeed, with 35 years’ industry experience, plus in-depth knowledge of all the latest trends, styles and materials, they can help you make the most informed choice to suit your interior scheme.

Whether you’re going ultra-modern, or timeless and traditional, if you’d like to update your home in time for the bitter cold months ahead, be sure to pop into Tileworld and discover the stunning collections on offer in store.

For more information call 01726 65434 or visit www.tileworldcornwall.co.uk

Capitalise on your holiday home asset

Padstow Property Management holds its roots in Property Management, but it didn’t take long for clients – impressed as they were by the team’s service and expertise – to start requesting a lettings service, too.

The lettings side of the business launched in April and has already proven a huge success. Both Managing Directors being Cornish – David coming from a family that has lived in Padstow for generations – means that they know the area incredibly well. This puts them and the team in prime position to help your guests make the absolute most of their stay. This makes them all the more likely to recommend your property to others, and encourages repeat bookings from loyal customers who will choose to stay at your property year after year.

Padstow Property Management offers owners a fully managed service, allowing them to rest assured that their property is in safe hands, 24/7. Taking care of everything from housekeeping and general maintenance, to lettings and even full refurbishments – if you have a property that could benefit from the expertise of a team that knows what it takes to uphold the standard of your property, in turn giving guests the best stays, then Padstow Property Management would love to hear from you.

For more information call 01841 510105 or visit www.padstowpropertymanagement.co.uk

Twixmas nights at Budock Vean

Christmas and New Year are wonderful family occasions, but they can also be times of stress, with gifts to buy and guests to entertain. Budock Vean Hotel by the Helford river is a firm advocate of allowing yourselves a bit of a time out – perhaps a night away where the only person you need look after is you.

The hotel’s ‘Twixmas’ break is ideal, with rooms on 27th and 28th December just waiting for you to escape to. Think Christmas trees galore, decorations, crackling log fires and time spent relaxing in the pool. Enjoy a spa treatment, or a crisp round of golf, before tucking into a mouth-watering meal in the restaurant and being waited on hand and foot.

With all of this to enjoy, plus uber-comfortable beds to snuggle in and a delicious Cornish breakfast in the morning, what are you waiting for? You deserve a night off!

For more information call 01326 250288 or visit www.budockvean.co.uk

Cornish Cottage Holidays’ top shoulder season tips

Having something that stands out and sets your property apart is important, particularly during the shoulder seasons. Hot tubs often improve bookings; when prospective guests have the choice of staying somewhere with or without one, the property with will often secure the booking. Indeed, even though the weather is cooler this time of year, the chance to soak outdoors is extremely appealing. The Cornish Cottage Holidays team recommend having a cover or gazebo so that, even in the worst weather, your guests can enjoy the bubbles.

Inside, a woodburner is also very tempting. Guests love nothing more than cosying up in front of a fire on a cold winter’s day. Or, why not create a cinema room with a smart speaker or surround sound? Couples and families alike can snuggle on the sofa and enjoy an experience they may not have at home. Gourmet popcorn or a quirky cocktail station can also be an unusual treat.

Guests will appreciate thoughtful touches to keep them warm during the colder months. Woolly hats, an umbrella, some wellies, or perhaps a couple of thermos flasks to take on a crisp morning walk will undoubtedly make them feel special.

Cornish Cottage Holidays suggest that, during the shoulder season, being open to short breaks can help fill gaps in your bookings diary, as can accepting arrivals on any day of the week. But perhaps one of the best ways to secure more bookings during quieter periods is by being dog friendly. Added extras such as dog towels, bowls, throws and treats are also welcome additions, and when pet owners find a holiday home in which both humans and hounds can relax, they often return time and time again!

For more information call 01326 336773 or email enquiry@cornishcottageholidays.co.uk

Much more than a furniture store

Discover a hidden gem in the heart of Penzance. At Alfred Smith & Son there is an eclectic mix of children’s toys and games for all the family to enjoy. As Winnie The Pooh famously said: “It isn’t much good having anything exciting, if you can’t share it with somebody!” So why not explore the treasure trove of diverse, fun and sometimes challenging board and card games – well reviewed and selected with thought and love for you to enjoy.

For those of you that prefer chocolate, they stock that too! Not to mention the advent candles and inspirational gifts from St Eval and Emma Bridgewater, and the Wellbeing Collection of Tisserand oils, great for soothing stress and sleepless nights in the lead up to Christmas.

For more information call 01736 363134 or visit Alfred Smith & Son on Facebook

Stein’s Seafood Restaurant welcomes new head chef

Padstow-born Pete Murt first joined Rick and Jill’s team in 2000, as a kitchen porter in St Petroc’s Bistro, before progressing through the ranks and participating in the company’s chef apprenticeship programme. After six years working under previous Head Chef, Stephane Delourme, Pete moved to London, working at Claude Bosi’s two Michelin-starred Hibiscus.

Pete returned to Stein’s in 2015 for the launch of the restaurant in Sandbanks, Dorset – the largest of the group’s establishments – and is now back in Padstow, settling into his new role at The Seafood Restaurant. Rick Stein comments: “Pete comes from the large Padstow family of Murts, many of whom have supplied us with seafood over the years, so I’ve known Pete even before he started working for us … and have watched his development over the years into a first-class chef. I’m really looking forward to working with him back in Padstow.”

For more information visit www.rickstein.com

Christmas in Crantock

Celebrate your Christmas party at the Old Albion Inn, a 400 year-old thatched building with a cosy atmosphere, cosy log fire and good food.

Situated in the heart of Crantock, enjoy a wintry walk along the beach then retreat to the pub, where you can indulge in the cracking Christmas menu and choose from a selection of the finest ales and lagers to be found. “Our second year in Crantock and most of our meals were at The Albion,” says one happy customer. “Food is top quality. I think we pretty much tried all of the menu. My favourite dish was the deli boards. They were well presented and the onion marmalade is to die for.”

So, why not pop in next time you’re in Crantock? Be sure to book ahead though, as tables are sure to be snapped up quickly over the festive period!

For more information call 01637 830243 or visit Old Albion Inn on Facebook.

A winter spa wonderland

Many owners agree that winter is the best time to use their hot tub – there is nothing better than sitting in warm steamy water on a clear frosty evening. Of course, being in Cornwall, we often have a little drizzle or rain at this time of year, but you can carry on enjoying yours without worrying about the weather by adding some shelter, such as a gazebo.

Spyrys Spas and Hot Tubs in Wadebridge have a great selection of gazebos, including the very affordable new Louvre from Superior Spas. For the ultimate in luxury, how about a Covana automated gazebo, which at the turn of a key transforms from a thermal cover to a raised roof to keep out the elements.

There is always a warm welcome in the showroom regardless of the weather, so why not pop in and take a look?

For more information call 01208 813760 or visit www.spyrys.co.uk

Plastic-free and open to all

The Summerhouse Gallery is a beautiful, welcoming space showcasing the very best of Cornish art. Located just across the water from the wonderful St Michael’s Mount, the team has nurtured the perfect environment in which to discover paintings, jewellery, sculpture and glass in the most relaxed manner.

Artists on display vary from the very well established, to the young, up and coming, and regardless of reputation, the team can put their hands on their hearts and say that each piece on the wall is there for one reason and one reason only – they love it!

Both child and dog friendly, The Summerhouse is also proud to be recognised as a plastic-free gallery. To discover more and to see the abundance of fabulous work on display, such as the painting pictured here (‘Autumn Light’ by Iona Sanders), be sure to pop in next time you’re in Marazion!

For more information call 01736 711400 or visit www.summerhousegallery.co.uk

Eat well this winter

We hear from Lifestyledoc founder, Mark who tells us: “Last Christmas, my ill-timed suggestion that roasted sprouts with bacon would be a nice change next year was not well received by my frazzled wife. She had just served up some delicious steamed sprouts with lemon and pepper. After 20 years of marriage I should know when to keep schtum. We will definitely be enjoying steamed brussels again this year – and not because they are nutritionally superior to roasted ones!”  Whatever your preference, Mark heartily recommends that you buy local, fresh produce this year.

The Lifestyledoc team know that eating well needs to be enjoyable and practical – what’s right for one person may not work for another – which is why they offer doctor consultations, nutritional advice and health coaching to help you make the best choices for you and your lifestyle.

For more information call 01872 272866 or visit www.lifestyledoc.co.uk

A gift from the heart

For those who hold the coast of Cornwall close to their heart, what better Christmas gift than a print of Mike Lacey’s stunning Cornish Heart? Capturing in a photo a deep love for the ocean, this one-in-a-million shot was the result of Mike’s search for a wave for the day his daughter was born. He took this magnificent photo on 3rd December 2014, and his daughter was born the following day.

All of Mike’s metal HD prints include a frame of your choice, so why not head to the website and check out your options? You’ll find an incredible array of other shots too, capturing the Cornish ocean in its many moods, all available in a range of sizes and finishes – perfect for those hard-to-buy-for loved ones this Christmas.

For more information visit www.wavesgallery.co.uk 

Festive lunches at Mount Haven

Get together with family, friends and colleagues during the Christmas season and enjoy a feast at the Mount Haven Restaurant. Situated within a boutique hotel perched on the edge of Marazion, the restaurant overlooks the sweep of Mount’s Bay with stunning views towards St Michael’s Mount, providing the perfect spot for a festive feast this Christmas.

Head Chef Ross Sloan and his talented kitchen team are committed to creating food that’s adventurous, modern and inspired by nature. Expect imaginative dishes that use the freshest ingredients available in the surrounding area of west Cornwall. Enjoy two courses for just £20 or three courses for £25 and indulge in a meal you won’t forget in a hurry!

For more information call 01736 719937 or visit www.mounthaven.co.uk/restaurant

Festive feasts from Catch

Catch Seafood Bar & Grill is open on weekends and Christmas school holidays, for breakfast, lunch and dinner this winter. Not to mention that it’s hosting an early ‘Family Party’ and a late ‘Beach House Supper’ on New Year’s Eve.

We ask chef and owner, Patrick, how seafood fits into his festive menus. “We serve mussels at Catch as they’re a sustainable stock and that’s really important for us. We Yule-cook them in spicy, mulled cider, then add cream – delicious!” Patrick continues: “We also offer Private Dining where our chefs cook in peoples’ homes. Mulled mussels are a big Christmas favourite alongside fresh Porthilly oysters, classic steaks and vegan Thai curries!”

You’ll find Catch on Mawgan Porth beach, or why not book a Private Dining Experience and have the team come to you?

For more information call 01637 860372 or visit www.catchmawganporthbeach.co.uk

Don’t forget the bedroom this Christmas

Traditionally, the lounge and dining table take centre stage for Christmas decorations, yet we spend around a third of our day in the bedroom. Why not indulge the festive season a little more by adorning the bedroom and waking up to some seasonal cheer?

Aissa Gonzalez, Interior Stylist at The Cornish Bed Company, says: “There is no need for clutter and glitter as it should remain a sanctuary for rest and relaxation. Add a Christmas garland to frame the bedstead and use a red or gold throw to dress the bed. A wreath above the bed adds height and some scented candles with essential oils bring out the festive scents to help you sleep.”

Using a traditional Victorian design, a bed from The Cornish Bed Company looks great with all kinds of Christmas decor. We love creating a rustic appeal with Christmas decorations, but with a timeless design, Cornish Beds look good adorned in any colour scheme.

For more information call 01726 825182 or visit www.cornishbeds.co.uk

A new kind of wellbeing experience

Merchants Manor is one of the only hotel spas in Falmouth. It combines centuries-old rejuvenation techniques with wellbeing teachings from across the world. The Linen Rooms are a luxurious safe haven where indulgent Temple Spa products are exclusively used.

Treatments range from Spa Days to facials and full body massages,
all designed to relax, revive and rejuvenate. Here at Cornwall Living we like the sound of the ‘My Kinda Mood’ treatment, which includes a full body massage and a facial.

Beyond the Linen Rooms you’ll find the Technogym, exercise classes and indoor swimming pool to help you radiate inside and out and become the best you can be. Make sure to keep an eye on the Merchants Manor website for brand new spa days and wellness experiences that change monthly!

For more information call 01326 312734 or visit www.merchantsmanor.com

Exciting times ahead for The Aloft Shop

Building on the reputation The Aloft Shop already has in Padstow, Kim Masters (Store Manager) and Beth Hillier recently became part-owners of the business. Their goal: to develop the shop into a recognisable brand that epitomises Padstow and the seaside community it’s a part of.

The Aloft Shop is renowned for its carefully curated collection of gorgeous men’s and ladies’ clothing, as well as fabulous homewares, accessories, jewellery and gift ideas. Kim, Beth and the team are incredibly passionate about sourcing the highest quality products, carefully selecting the brands they work with and displaying an array of beautiful items that you won’t find elsewhere.

If you’ve yet to tick off your Christmas gift list, a trip to The Aloft Shop comes highly recommended, and did we mention that the team are giving away a £50 voucher in this month’s competitions? Click here to find out more!

For more information call 01841 532548 or visit www.thealoftshop.com

Invite cosiness in with Holdcroft Lighting

At this time of year natural light is limited. Lighting is an essential part of daily life, especially during the winter when we have shorter days and longer nights. Adding warm, subtle lights to your home will help make it inviting and cosy, allowing you to rest and recuperate during the festive period.

Comparably, bright light can help you focus, so whether you work from home or are organising paperwork, ensure that you have a good, bright light or task lamp to avoid eye strain or mistakes!

Holdcroft Lighting & Home have been delivering professional services to the south west for over 15 years. The team are passionate, knowledgeable and inspired by great design, offering expert interior advice from their showroom in Bude. Be sure to pay a visit and see for yourself the vast range of lighting available – perfect for brightening up the winter months!

For more information call 01288 350627 or visit www.holdcroftlighting.co.uk

Rohrs & Rowe voted best in Cornwall

Cornish property agents Rohrs & Rowe are delighted to announce that, for the second time, they have been named ‘Best Estate Agency in Cornwall’ at the prestigious International Property Awards. The judges have also shortlisted Rohrs & Rowe as one of just three UK estate agencies for the national title of ‘Best Estate Agency in the UK’. The winner of this coveted honour will be announced at an awards ceremony in early December, at the Savoy Hotel
in London.

“We are ecstatic to be awarded this prestigious accolade once again,” Martyn and Matthew tell us. “It’s validation that we present and market our clients’ properties to the highest standards, as well as assurance that they will receive five-star customer service and satisfaction.”

If you’re thinking of selling your Cornish property, why not get in touch and see how Rohrs and Rowe can help you?

For more information call 01872 306360 or visit www.rohrsandrowe.co.uk

Is your door safe and secure?

Offering a comprehensive range of doors and windows tailored to suit Cornwall’s unique environment, the team at Longrock Windows in Penzance understand your need for both style and unrivalled functionality. They also understand the importance of security, which is why all doors are fully enforced with triple-sealed outer frames and multi-point locking systems.

Approved by British Standards, locksmiths and even the Police, the locks on Longrock’s doors are the most secure available, coming complete with a range of functions that serve to make life easier, while at the same time adding multiple layers of security to your home. If you’re hoping to upgrade your doors or windows and thereby improve security in your home in the run up to Christmas, why not give the Longrock team a call and see how they can help?

For more information call 01736 363113 or visit www.longrockwindows.co.uk

Presenting your home in the winter

There’s plenty you can do to entice prospective buyers in the winter. According to My Place in Cornwall, this starts with the front entrance. Having to navigate slippery leaves on your driveway doesn’t make the best first impression, so be sure to sweep them up or invest in a leaf blower. A couple of winter plants can also give your front door a colourful lift.

If buyers are looking to move before Christmas, it’s important to make your home feel warm and cosy. Put the heating on before a viewing and try lighting a scented candle or two – if your home smells damp or musty, this will be another red flag for a buyer.

If you can present a clean, tidy and warm property this winter, you have a great chance of securing a sale! For more helpful hints and tips, check out My Place in Cornwall’s online Seller’s Guide.

For more information call 01208 813874 or visit www.myplaceincornwall.co.uk

Storm proof your home with ColourFence

If your fence is old, damaged, or starting to show signs of rot or wear, it might be time to replace it. While this is an investment, it’ll be much better value than paying to fix your neighbour’s windscreen after your fence lands on it! One of the best alternatives to cheap overlap fencing is ColourFence. It’s a strong, durable fencing solution designed to withstand 130mph winds, which we’ve already come close to this year!

ColourFence is made of zincalume steel. It’s corrosion resistant and rot-proof, and is designed to stand up to the most extreme weather conditions. The durable fence panels require very little maintenance and are guaranteed for 25 years. So, is it worth it? Well, the reality is that our weather is getting more extreme, which makes ColourFence a better long-term investment than cheaper wooden panels.

For more information call 01637 222 578 or visit www.colourfencecornwall.co.uk

Vincent Basham: master of seascapes

Seascape artist, Vincent Basham has lived in Cornwall for the past three years, and opened his purpose-built studio/gallery adjacent to his Wadebridge home in 2018. He paints stunning seascapes that capture the light and movement of the ocean. This painting (pictured) is called ‘Atlantic Sunset’ and displays his mastery of light perfectly. As a self-taught artist, Vincent developed a passion for painting seascapes after living in Newquay in his early twenties. Vincent has had successful exhibitions in Rock and Padstow throughout 2018 and 2019, where he has welcomed visitors from the local area and from afar.

A selection of the artwork he has sold now resides in America, Germany, The Channel Islands and Ireland, a scope that reflects the popularity of his work. Some customers are so happy with their chosen pieces that they have returned to purchase more to add to their collections. His studio/gallery is open daily and commisions are undertaken.

For more information call 07836244983 or visit www.vincentbasham.co.uk

Introducing Cornico Coffee Roasters

Since 2011, Cornico Directors Andrew and Martyn have been working together to supply hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and the like with fine Italian Carraro Coffee (based 60 miles from Venice) and Italian La Spaziale espresso machines. Since the business has expanded, Andrew’s daughters and Martyn’s son have joined them to start their new venture in roasting their own coffee alongside the rest of the Cornico team. Together they bring ethically traded, zero waste, great tasting coffee to Cornwall and Devon, roasted near Padstow. The Cornico team believe it is important to provide free Barista Training to all of their customers, in their new purpose built training facility,  to ensure that their customers are creating a delicious beverage every time!

For more information call 01637 880343 or visit www.cornico.co.uk

Hone your skills in the saddle

International Classical Dressage Trainer, Demelza Hawes, is deeply passionate about all things equine, offering professional coaching of both horses and riders at all levels. Being a qualified yoga teacher and sports yoga coach, and having won one of only five places in 2009 at the internationally acclaimed l’Ecole Nationale d’Equitation, Demelza has a thorough understanding of rider and horse physiology and psychology. This enables her to provide clear instructions, helping hone your skills as a rider and improving direction to your horse.

Open-minded and considerate of all training requirements, and available to visit you at your stables, Demelza has a library of gymnastic exercises, specialising in ridden advancement and groundwork, improving the performance in all the main disciplines by offering a variety of training packages. In short, whether you’re new to horse riding or are looking to brush up on your existing skills, Demelza can help you make the most of your time in the saddle.

For more information call 07811 767578 or visit demelzahawesdressageandyoga on Facebook.

Calling all holiday home owners!

If you own a Cornish holiday home, then Holiday Home Waste Collection Ltd could be of service. This family run firm has introduced a personable waste collection service to suit individual home owners, ensuring clean bins when guests arrive, without a binding contract and awkward collection days.

Offering collections on both the north and south coasts on different changeover days, the service includes the provision of recycling bins and bin bags, the removal of general waste, as well as the correct recycling of dry, mixed and glass recyclables. Mixed dry recyclables are sold on, while non-recyclables are incinerated, producing green energy that gets sent straight to the electrical grid. The team has also introduced food recycling, the option of dog waste bins, and now they even make bespoke wheelie bin enclosures – designed to suit your unique property or storage area.

If you’d like to ensure that none of your guests are greeted by piles of rubbish when they arrive, be sure to head to the Holiday Home Waste Collection website and discover how this flexible Cornish business can help you.

For more information call 01208 815060 or visit www.holidayhomewastecollection.co.uk

Cyclists fund nurse hours for Cornwall Hospice Care

23 cyclists from Cornwall have raised a massive £75,692 for Cornwall Hospice Care, riding from Padstow to Nantes in France. The charity says this will fund 2,556 hours of nursing care for terminally ill patients.

The team started from Prideaux Place in Padstow and arrived in convoy on Saturday 5th October at the Château des ducs de Bretagne. They were greeted by a huge welcome party of friends and family, and of course, a champagne finish.

One of those who took part was Oli Hoare, the charity’s Head of Fundraising. “We set off as a group of people united by loss, but we returned as friends,” Oli tells us. “I am in awe of every single cyclist who joined us. Their grit and determination to take on this challenge and to raise this incredible amount, has been extraordinary and truly inspiring.”

For more information call 01726 839156 or visit www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk

And the winner is…

Regular readers of Cornwall Living will have spotted our new ‘Ultimate dish’ competition – a hot contest between some of Cornwall’s best restaurants, voted for by you.

Last issue, the theme was ‘Greatest grills’, and the dishes in the running did not disappoint: Cornish Primrose Herd Ribs from the Marazion Hotel and Cutty Sark Restaurant; and Grilled Loin of Hake from The Harbour Fish and Grill.

The competition was fierce, but we’re delighted to announce that the winner is… The Marazion Hotel! Roasted low and slow with homemade barbeque sauce, chargrilled, and served on a platter filled with delicious homemade sides, nothing says autumnal comfort food like Head Chef, Keith Palmer’s smoky barbeque ribs.

As promised, we will be contacting one lucky voter with the fantastic prize of a meal from each of this month’s contestants, so if you voted, be sure to check your emails – it could well be you!

For more information visit www.marazionhotel.co.uk or www.theharbourfishandgrill.com